“It was good to see the Indian team back Sanju and give him opportunities to play” – Jitesh Sharma elated with management’s long rope policy

Indian wicket-keeper bat Jitesh Sharma was delighted with the fact that India’s think tank gave a longer run to Sanju Samson in the three-match T20I series against Bangladesh. Samson was under the pump as he registered two ducks in the series against Sri Lanka.

Furthermore, the right-hander returned with scores of 29 and 10 in the first two T20Is against the Tigers. However, Samson was able to grab his chance with both hands in the third T20I at Hyderabad. The flamboyant scored a magnum opus of 111 runs off just 47 balls with the help of 11 fours and eight sixes. The RR captain completed his hundred off just 40 balls and became the second-fastest centurion for India in T20Is.

Jitesh Sharma, who was also part of the T20I squad against Bangladesh, said Samson’s case gives confidence to the bench that they will also get a long rope in the final XI when they would get their chances.

“I understand how his first two innings didn’t go well, but I was hoping he would score because I’ve seen Sanju’s hard work, and he had a good IPL season too. It was good to see the Indian team back Sanju and give him opportunities to play. Seeing that gives hope to those who are not in the playing XI, knowing that when their time comes, they will receive the same kind of support,” Jitesh Sharma told the Times of India.

Sharma said he doesn’t compare himself with other wicket-keepers as all the players have different playing styles.

“I don’t see myself comparing with others because all wicket keepers focus on their own performance and growth, rather than competing against each other. Everyone has a different role, a different playing style—each of us is unique,” he remarked.

The PBKS wicket-keeper batter lauded the team management for backing the players and making them comfortable at the top level.

“Those are important things to remember because anyone playing for India has earned that place. Everyone deals with pressure differently. Some players become comfortable quickly, while others take more time. I think these words carry meaning for anyone new to the team,” Jitesh said in the same interview.

“They offer comfort, as every player is nervous in their early stages. If the coach gives that kind of reassurance, it allows the player to play freely, knowing they won’t be judged by one or two innings. The team knows that the player has performed well before and will receive their backing,” he concluded.

Jitesh will want to grab his opportunity against South Africa in the four-match T20I series.